At New Art Exchange, we recognise that leadership transformation must include the governance structures that underpin our organisations. Boardrooms shape what is valued, resourced and seen. Yet, they often remain disconnected from the communities we serve.

This is why we have developed a dedicated Board Development Scheme to support Global Ethnic Majority individuals who want to contribute to the cultural sector as Trustees. This national programme is open to those who wish to join a board or have recently joined one and want to participate in a governance training package to become a more confident Trustee.

Through practical workshops and coaching, participants gain the tools and knowledge needed to meaningfully contribute to governance, strategy and vision. This is not about representation alone. It is about shifting power and ensuring those most excluded from leadership have the opportunity to shape it.

The second iteration of our Reshaping Governance programme will launch on 2nd September 2025, inviting applicants to apply online via our website. An in-person residency will then take place in Nottingham at New Art Exchange on 5, 6 and 7 November led by B&G Partners*. 10 places will be available for the programme, with a bursary for participants to cover any associated costs for travel, accommodation, expenses and a personal fee.

Residency (3 days in-person at NAE, 5-7 November):

Day 1: Foundation – Roles and Responsibilities of Board Members

Day 2: Power to the People and the CEO + Board Partnership

Day 3: The Parts of the Job They Don’t Tell You About – Collective Responsibility

Shadowing

Each participant will shadow 2x Board meetings – one in Nov/Dec 2025, one in Feb/Mar 2026 (exact dates TBD)

Collective Coaching

All participants will take place in 2x 90 min coaching session following each shadowed Board meeting to reflect on experience and learning – one in Jan 2026, one in Mar/Apr 2026 (exact dates TBD)

For information on how to apply, please see our Expression of Interest form. Please submit your completed application via email to transform@nae.org.uk by midday on 30th September.

More information: https://www.nae.org.uk/transform-reshaping-governance-2/

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